12 Questions to Ask a Mobile Bar Before Booking | Checklist

# 12 Questions to Ask a Mobile Bar Before Booking | Checklist

Planning an event is a huge undertaking, and the bar is often the centerpiece of the celebration. But how do you ensure the mobile bar you hire is professional, legal, and won't surprise you with hidden costs?

The Essential Hiring & Setup Checklist

Before you get into event-specific details, you need to cover the fundamentals. These initial questions establish a baseline for professionalism, experience, and logistical capability.

Your Ultimate Hiring a Mobile Bar Checklist

1. **What is your experience with events similar to mine?** Ask for examples of past events, whether they were weddings, corporate gatherings, or private parties. An experienced company can anticipate the unique flow and needs of your specific event type.

2. **Who are the actual bartenders who will be working my event?** Are they full-time employees or temporary contractors? Inquire about their training, certifications (like TIPS—Training for Intervention Procedures—or ServSafe Alcohol®), and level of experience.

3. **Can you provide references or reviews from past clients?** Reputable companies will be proud to share testimonials. Look for reviews on Google, Yelp, or wedding-specific sites.

Nailing Down the Mobile Bar Setup Checklist

4. **What are your exact space and power requirements?** Get specific dimensions to ensure the bar fits comfortably in your desired location. Confirm the mobile bar power requirements—do they need a standard outlet, a dedicated circuit, or do they provide their own generator?

5. **What is your process for setup and breakdown?** How much time do they need before the event starts and after it ends? Confirm that their timeline aligns with your venue's rules and your event schedule.

Tailoring the Service to Your Event

Key Questions to Ask a Bartender for a Wedding

6. **Do you offer a signature cocktail consultation?** A great mobile bar service will work with you to design custom cocktails that match your theme, colors, or personal tastes.

7. **How do you determine the right number of bartenders for a wedding of our size?** Staffing is crucial for keeping lines short and guests happy.

Vetting Questions to Ask an Event Bartender for Corporate or Private Parties

8. **How do you manage bartender staffing levels for events with fluctuating attendance?** For corporate events especially, guest count can vary.

9. **What is included in your standard packages, and what are the upgrade options?** Get a clear list of what's covered.

The Critical Details: Uncovering Costs, Licenses & Insurance

This is the most important part of the vetting process and where many people get tripped up.

10. **What specific licenses do you hold, and will they cover my event at my chosen venue?** This protects you from legal liability and ensures the service is operating legally.

11. **Can you provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) listing me or my venue as an 'additional insured'?** This acts as your financial safety net.

12. **Can you walk me through your contract and point out all potential fees?** This prevents hidden costs and ensures the quoted price is the final price.

Conclusion: Choose a Partner, Not Just a Vendor

Choosing a mobile bar service is a significant decision that impacts the entire atmosphere of your event. By using this vetting checklist, you move beyond a simple price comparison and into a meaningful evaluation of professionalism, safety, and reliability.